ServSafe Alcohol Practice Exam

Where is most of the alcohol absorbed into the bloodstream?

1. lungs

2. mouth

3. small intestine

4. liver

The correct answer is: small intestine

The small intestine is where most alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream. This occurs due to the large surface area of the small intestine, which has numerous villi and microvilli that enhance absorption. After alcohol is consumed, it travels through the stomach and into the small intestine, where it quickly passes through the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream. The rapid absorption in this area contributes to the swift onset of effects related to alcohol consumption. While the mouth and stomach do play roles in the initial uptake of alcohol, the majority of absorption takes place in the small intestine. Additionally, the liver is significant in metabolizing alcohol but is not the primary site of absorption. Understanding these processes is essential for recognizing how alcohol affects the body and for responsible service in establishments that sell alcoholic beverages.